Experimental investigation on drop size distribution and mean drop size in an L-shape pulsed packed extraction column

Abstract

In this study, the mean drop diameter and drop size distribution have been investigated in a pilot plant of a new type of extraction column entitled “L-shaped pulsed packed extraction column” by using two liquid systems of toluene/acetone/water and n-butyl/acetone/water in the presence of mass transfer in two directions. The effects of operational variables, physical properties and mass transfer direction have been considered on the dispersed drop size. It is found that the mean drop diameter and drop size distribution is significantly affected by the pulsation intensity and interfacial tension of liquid system. However, the phases flow rates and mass transfer direction have a weaker impact. Furthermore, it is observed that the mean drops diameter in the horizontal and vertical sections of the used column have mostly the same size and it is considered as a significant advantage. Finally, new correlations are proposed to accurately predict the mean drop size and drop size distribution. Good agreement between predictions and experiments was found for all operating conditions, chemical systems and mass transfer direction that were investigated.